The A to Z of the racing year: From Alastair Down to Zanahiyr

2024 saw Willie Mullins become both a Cheltenham centurion and the first Irish-based jumps handler to be crowned champion trainer of Britain since Vincent O’Brien in 1954. But the year wasn’t all about him, other stars — equine and human — shone too, writes Darren Norris

GREAT YEAR: Trainer Willie Mullins after sending Galopin Des Champs out to win the Savills Steeplechase (Grade 1) 5-y-o plus on day three of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

A is for Alastair Down

There was widespread sadness across the sport after the death of arguably the greatest racing writer of all time on November 1, just short of a week after the press room at his beloved Cheltenham was renamed in his honour.